Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease in which inflammation causes the destruction of joints around the body.
Dr Rob Hicks last medically reviewed this article in July 2006.
Rheumatoid arthritis
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What are the symptoms?
In rheumatoid arthritis the affected joints are stiff (particularly in the morning), painful, tender and swollen. Usually more than one joint is affected, in a symmetrical distribution.
Rheumatoid arthritis can affect any joint, but the most commonly affected are those of the wrist, hands and fingers, toes, ankles and knees. The elbows and shoulders are often affected too.
Joint damage causes deformities to develop, which means many people also suffer disability, embarrassment and depression.
Weight loss, fatigue and anaemia may also be experienced.
Who's affected?
About one in 100 people has rheumatoid arthritis, with women affected two to three times more often than men. It can occur at any age but commonly affects women between the ages of 20 and 50.
Some people are genetically susceptible to rheumatoid arthritis. In these cases stress, infection or trauma may trigger its development.
What's the treatment?
It isn't possible to prevent rheumatoid arthritis or to cure it, but painkillers and anti-inflammatory medication can be used to relieve the symptoms.
Disease-modifying drugs are also used, including penicillamine and TNF (tumour necrosis factor) blockers, as is gold. Using these early can help slow the progress of rheumatoid arthritis. Sometimes steroids will be recommended.
Joint replacement is often needed. Physiotherapy, home aids and emotional and financial support are also important.
You can also treat your rheumatism yourself using the following techniques:
- Local heat, using heat lamps, heated pads and hot water bottles
- Wearing extra clothes when outdoors to avoid the cold
- Taking warm baths
- Local massage - but go slowly on particularly tender joints
- Applying anti-inflammatory creams
- Following a balanced diet, including supplements such as zinc and plenty of water
Advice and support
- National Rheumatoid Arthritis Society
- Helpline: 0800 298 7650
- Email: enquiries@rheumatoid.org.uk
- Website: www.rheumatoid.org.uk
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